Joy Of Cooking Waffle Recipe
Waffles bring comfort to any morning. A few years back, someone gave me a waffle maker during the holidays. That machine sat in my cupboard for months.
I loved the idea of fresh waffles, but most recipes left me with soft, limp results. The texture never held up.
Then I opened my copy of the ‘Joy of Cooking” cookbook. This cookbook has been around since 1931 and has guided countless home cooks. I found a waffle recipe in the breakfast section that changed everything.
The batter felt different. The method was clear. I made my first batch and bit into a crisp, golden waffle that stayed firm.
Now I make this Joy Of Cooking Waffle Recipe all the time. My waffle maker finally gets the use it deserves. The results are always crisp on the outside and soft on the inside.
Today I am sharing this copycat version so you can bring the same golden waffles to your own table.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Recipe
Crispy Texture That Lasts – You get waffles with a golden, crunchy outside that stays firm even after they cool down.
Light and Fluffy Interior – The whipped egg whites create air pockets that make each bite feel soft and airy.
Easy to Follow – The steps are clear and straightforward. Even if you’ve never made waffles before, you can handle this recipe.
Consistent Results – The method works every single time. You won’t end up with soggy or undercooked waffles.
Joy Of Cooking Waffle Ingredients
1. Egg Yolks (2 yolks): Yolks add richness and color to the batter. They help bind the ingredients together. Substitute with one whole egg, though the texture may change slightly.
2. Milk (500g): Milk creates moisture and helps the batter spread. Whole milk works best, but two percent or low-fat milk can be used. Almond milk or oat milk can replace dairy milk.
3. Oil (20g): Oil keeps the waffles from sticking and adds tenderness. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter all work well. Coconut oil is another option.
4. Vanilla Extract (8g): Vanilla adds a warm, sweet aroma. Use pure vanilla for the best flavor. Vanilla paste or vanilla bean can replace extract.
5. Honey or Sugar (22g): Sweetness balances the other flavors. Honey adds a floral note. White sugar or brown sugar can be used instead. Maple syrup is another choice.
6. Flour (225g): Flour forms the structure of the waffle. All-purpose flour is the standard choice. Whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend can be substituted, though results may vary.
7. Baking Powder (15g): Baking powder creates lift and helps the waffles puff up. Use fresh baking powder for the best rise. Baking soda is not a direct substitute.
8. Salt (1 pinch): Salt enhances all the flavors. A pinch is enough. Sea salt or kosher salt both work.
9. Egg Whites (2 whites): Whipped egg whites add airiness and create a light texture. The foam helps the waffles rise. Aquafaba (chickpea liquid) can be whipped as a vegan alternative.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- Mixing bowls – large and small
- Whisk – smooth blending
- Hand mixer – fast egg white whipping
- Sifter or strainer – removes lumps
- Waffle maker – shapes and cooks batter
- Rubber spatula – gentle folding
- Measuring cups or scale – steady amounts
- Ladle or cup – for pouring batter
How To Make Joy Of Cooking Waffle
Step 1 | Mix the Dry Ingredients
Place flour in a large bowl. Add a small pinch of salt. Add baking powder. Give everything a gentle stir so the dry mix blends well.
Step 2 | Combine the Wet Ingredients
Pour milk into a bowl. Then add the egg yolks, oil, vanilla, and honey or sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just keep it moving steadily.
Step 3 | Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry mixture. Stir until the batter comes together. Small lumps are normal. Do not over-mix because that can make the waffles tough.
Step 4 | Strain the Batter
Pour the batter through a strainer into another clean bowl. This step removes lumps of flour or egg. The result should be smooth batter that cooks evenly.
Step 5 | Whip Egg Whites
Place egg whites in a clean bowl. Use a hand mixer to whip until the texture turns fluffy and stable. This step brings gentle lift to the waffles.
Step 6 | Fold Egg Whites Into Batter
Use a rubber spatula to fold the whipped whites into the batter. Move the spatula around the bowl in calm motions. A light, airy texture forms during this step.
Step 7 | Heat the Waffle Maker
Warm the waffle maker until steam rises. A hot surface helps the batter gain a crisp edge.
Step 8 | Pour the Batter and Cook
Scoop batter onto the hot surface. Close the waffle maker. Steam rises as the batter cooks. Once no steam flows out, the waffle reaches a crisp, golden state. Lift the lid and remove the waffle gently.
Step 9 | Serve or Cool for Later
Serve your homemade Joy Of Cooking Waffle Recipe warm with fruit, cream, syrup, or butter. Cool extra waffles on a wire rack so the crisp edge stays strong.
Tips for Success & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold milk and eggs can make the batter thick and hard to mix. Let them sit on the counter for 15 minutes before starting. This helps everything blend smoothly.
Keep the First Batch for Testing: The first waffle often helps you adjust the amount of batter and cooking time. Use it to test your machine’s heat level. Adjust as needed for the remaining batches.
Preheat Your Waffle Maker Properly: A lukewarm waffle maker will not crisp the batter. The waffles may stick and tear. Always wait for the indicator light or test with a drop of water.
Avoid Peeking: Don’t open the lid too early to prevent sticking.
Serving Ideas and Toppings
I love topping my waffles with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for natural sweetness and color. You can drizzle warm maple syrup over the top or add a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
A pat of butter melts beautifully into the waffle pockets. Sliced bananas pair perfectly with peanut butter or chocolate chips.
Sometime use Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast or spread nut butter for added protein.
A light dusting of powdered sugar or honey drizzle makes your plate look bakery-style while adding delicious sweetness.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, use a toaster or oven until warm and crisp.
For longer storage, freeze waffles in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen to enjoy the same texture as freshly cooked waffles.
Joy Of Cooking Waffle Recipe FAQs
1. Is it necessary to whip egg whites separately?
Whipping egg whites adds lightness and fluffiness to the waffles. Although skipping this step will still produce waffles, they may be heavier and less airy.
For best texture, don’t skip whipping and folding the egg whites gently into the batter.
2. How much batter should I pour onto the waffle maker?
This depends on your waffle maker size, but generally, use a ladle or measuring cup to pour enough batter to just cover the cooking surface without overflowing. Usually, ½ to ⅔ cup works well for medium-sized waffle makers.
3. How do I know when the waffle is done?
Most waffle makers have indicators, but generally, cook until steam stops escaping. The waffle should be golden brown and crisp. Open the lid carefully; if it sticks, cook for a bit longer.
You can also insert a toothpick; it should come out clean when the waffle is fully cooked.
4. Can this recipe be made without a waffle maker?
You can cook the batter in a hot non-stick skillet, but the classic shape and crisp edges may differ. Flip carefully to cook both sides evenly.
5. Can I add flavors like cinnamon or cocoa?
Absolutely! Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for extra flavor. Adjust sugar slightly for balance.
6. How do I clean the waffle maker afterward?
Let it cool completely, then brush crumbs away with a soft brush or cloth. Wipe plates with a damp paper towel. Never soak or put the whole thing under water.
Joy Of Cooking Waffle Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place flour in a large bowl. Add a small pinch of salt. Add baking powder. Give everything a gentle stir so the dry mix blends well.
- Pour milk into another bowl. Add egg yolks. Add oil. Add vanilla. Add honey or sugar. Stir until smooth. The mix does not need a perfect texture, only steady movement.
- Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry mixture. Stir until the batter comes together. Small lumps are normal. Do not over-mix because that can make the waffles tough.
- Pour the batter through a strainer into another clean bowl. This step removes lumps of flour or egg. The result should be smooth batter that cooks evenly.
- Place egg whites in a clean bowl. Use a hand mixer to whip until the texture turns fluffy and stable. This step brings gentle lift to the waffles.
- Use a rubber spatula to fold the whipped whites into the batter. Move the spatula around the bowl in calm motions. A light, airy texture forms during this step.
- Warm the waffle maker until steam rises. A hot surface helps the batter gain a crisp edge.
- Scoop batter onto the hot surface. Close the waffle maker. Steam rises as the batter cooks. Once no steam flows out, the waffle reaches a crisp, golden state. Lift the lid and remove the waffle gently.
- Serve your homemade Joy Of Cooking Waffle Recipe warm with fruit, cream, syrup, or butter. Cool extra waffles on a wire rack so the crisp edge stays strong.
This Joy Of Cooking Waffle Recipe is a great way to enjoy bakery-quality waffles at home. Its success lies in simple steps, fresh ingredients, and careful folding technique.
With practice, it becomes easy to personalize and adjust according to your taste.
Sharing your waffle photos online lets you connect with others who appreciate good cooking at home.
